Explore the Best National Parks This Fall

Summer trips through the USA’s national parks are a rite of passage. However, many are at their best during the vibrant fall months.

As autumn arrives, favorite destinations undergo a dramatic transformation, providing new experiences for those seeking an outdoor escape that offers a respite from summer heat.

Witness woodlands, deserts, and shorelines come alive with nature’s spectacular changes, including stunning leaves, increased wildlife activity, and clearer vistas of the cosmos. Here are compelling reasons to visit ten parks across the country for a splendid autumn getaway—it’s not too late to embark on one!

1. Olympic National Park, Washington

On a journey through Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, you can discover some of the world’s largest trees in the expansive wilderness of Olympic National Park. Encompassing over a million acres, this park features numerous hiking trails that lead to mountains, coastlines, and ancient temperate rainforests. The Sol Duc and Elwha Valleys are great for viewing towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks.

As you venture deeper, moss-draped Sitka spruces tower amidst the ferns and lichens of the lush Hoh Rain Forest. The park is also a popular setting for those interested in the lore of vampire tales, providing a unique appeal in addition to its natural beauty.

Fall foliage seen from the top of Gorham Mountain, Acadia National Park, Maine, USA — Acadia National Park in fall combines two quintessential New England treasures: rocky ocean inlets and breathtaking foliage.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park, the only national park in New England, showcases some of the most stunning autumn colors globally. The park is ideal for leaf-peeping, with colors peaking around early October. There are 158 miles of trails that meander around lakes, forests, and along rugged coastlines, offering ample opportunities to appreciate the myriad hues of Maine’s landscape.

Historically, Acadia was inhabited by the Wabanaki people, known as Pemetic, meaning “the sloped land.” Established in 1916, this park is a testament to the region’s remarkable natural beauty and cultural history.

Yellowstone Falls in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming — Discover the breathtaking views at Yellowstone Falls.

3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is nature’s tour de force, renowned for its unique “supervolcano,” housing half of the planet’s geysers, the largest high-altitude lake in the country, and abundant rivers and waterfalls. Visitors can encounter captivating wildlife, including bears and bison. Stations like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Lamar Valley offer exhilarating vistas and opportunities to witness North America’s diverse fauna.

Joshua Tree National Park at sunset, California — Experience stunning sunsets over iconic Joshua trees.

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

About 250 miles south of Death Valley, Joshua Tree National Park encompasses over 1,200 square miles of surreal landscapes and two distinct desert habitats—the Mojave and Colorado. Each habitat is characterized by unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Joshua tree, which thrives in this arid environment. Explore rock climbing in Echo Cove and take in the breathtaking vistas from Keys View while respecting the delicate desert ecosystem.

5. Denali National Park, Alaska

In the heart of Alaska lies Denali National Park, known for its striking natural beauty and wildlife. Along the scenic Parks Highway to Healy, one can enjoy views of snowcapped peaks and look out for wildlife, including caribou. Remember, autumn brings a chilling breeze and can change driving conditions, so stay prepared.

Tourists by the General Sherman Tree, Sequoia National Park, California, USA — The General Sherman, the world’s largest tree by volume, is especially awe-inspiring in fall.

6. Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, California

These adjacent national parks are celebrated for their towering trees, magnificent waterfalls, and dramatic glacial valleys. Explore the scenic Kings Canyon Scenic Byway while marveling at impressive rock formations and cascading waterfalls. Be sure to check out the General Sherman Tree, the largest on Earth by volume, standing tall in Giant Forest.

7. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Established in 2003, Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact old-growth hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. While the park is known for its short trails and boardwalks, the true gem lies in exploring Cedar Creek via kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and vibrant colors among the ancient trees, making it an ideal time for paddling adventures.

Skyline drive through the colorful autumn forest of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia — Skyline Drive will take you through the colorful autumn woods of Shenandoah National Park.

8. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

This expansive park, located in Virginia, features rolling hills and an electrifying array of fall colors. With 500 miles of hiking trails winding through deciduous forests, visitors can enjoy stunning mountaintop panoramas and plentiful wildlife sightings. Remember to arrive early; campgrounds are first-come, first-served and October can see heavy traffic.

Rocky needles at Canyonlands National Park — The breathtaking canyons of Canyonlands National Park in cooler temperatures.

9. Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Though Canyonlands National Park may not showcase vibrant fall colors, its stunning geological formations are best experienced during cooler autumn months. This expansive park was sculpted by the Colorado and Green Rivers, offering breathtaking views of canyons and rich sunsets.

10. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park boasts snow-dusted peaks, glistening alpine lakes, and magnificent valleys ideal for cycling and hiking. In the fall, heightened wildlife activity adds excitement; mountain goats traverse higher elevations, while elk and moose engage in their mating rituals. Consider camping along the Gros Ventre River for an enriching experience amid natural beauty.

Stars over the Great Sand Dunes, Colorado, USA — The night sky over Great Sand Dunes National Park dazzles every September and October.

11. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

While Great Sand Dunes National Park in southeastern Colorado may not be the typical choice for a fall getaway, the area offers a unique contrast of changing foliage and wildlife activity. The cooler temperatures in autumn make exploring the hot sands far more pleasant. Furthermore, the clear night skies provide breathtaking opportunities for stargazing.

Whether it’s witnessing the vivid colors of foliage, exploring diverse landscapes, or experiencing memorable wildlife encounters, fall offers unparalleled opportunities to discover America’s national parks.